Legal Question in Traffic Law in North Carolina

I have a court date coming up for a speeding ticket, 52 in a 35, didn't know the speed limit was 35, but got ticketed anyway. The ticket is $240 total. I've looked into getting a lawyer but I simply cannot afford one. My sister told me that she went to court for a speeding ticket and the judge asked her if she had an attorney and she said that she didn't. He then asked her if she would like one to be appointed and she said that she would and one was appointed to her. This is my first ticket in 17 years, and all the lawyers I visited, but could not afford, told me to get an improper equipment plea. Will the court appoint me a lawyer if I do not have one but wish to have one?


Asked on 7/25/16, 8:16 am

1 Answer from Attorneys
John O'Neal O'Neal Law Office

The charge that you have does not carry the risk of prison time so you would not be eligible for a court-appointed lawyer. Even if you could get a court-appointed lawyer the lawyer is not free---unless the charges are dismissed or you are found not guilty. If you are found guilty or negotiate a plea/reduction you would still be responsible to pay for the lawyer. Traffic lawyers are fairly inexpensive and, nowadays, you should be able to find one for a fee less than what you would pay in court costs. My suggestion is that you look again and hire an attorney to ensure this matter is resolved in the most advantageous manner possible.

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Answered on 7/25/16, 5:38 pm


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